By Blake Jackson
Farmers and landowners in Wisconsin are urged to apply early for the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) voluntary conservation programs.
Nathan Fikkert, NRCS Wisconsin State Conservationist, announced that the deadline for submitting applications for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) for fiscal year 2025 funding is November 1, 2024.
EQIP and RCPP offer financial assistance for various conservation practices. Last year, Wisconsin NRCS invested $63.2 million in these programs.
While NRCS accepts applications year-round, early submission ensures timely consideration for the upcoming fiscal year.
The Farm Bill and Inflation Reduction Act empower NRCS to support conservation efforts that enhance soil health, water and air quality, and other natural resources. “Receiving EQIP or RCPP applications early gives our staff ample time to assist our customers, address their resource concerns and begin planning for their land’s conservation needs,” said Fikkert.
All eligible applications received by November 1, 2024, will be evaluated, prioritized, and ranked for funding. Farmers should contact their local USDA Service Center to initiate the process and discuss producer eligibility.
Fikkert emphasizes the importance of early planning for projects requiring permits, such as manure storage or streambank restoration. Applicants with completed designs and submitted permit applications will receive priority.
NRCS also offers special sign-up opportunities for Farmstead, Local Work Groups, Organic, Climate Smart Agriculture & Forestry, Urban Agriculture, Conservation Incentive Contracts, and several landscape-based initiatives.
These initiatives provide increased payment rates and special support for Beginning Farmers and Historically Underserved producers, including Tribal Nations.
Farmstead focuses on improving nutrient handling and clean water separation for livestock producers. Local Working Groups prioritize local resource concerns through unique fund pools. Organic supports certified organic growers and producers in adopting conservation practices.
Climate-Smart Agriculture & Forestry addresses climate change mitigation through practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve carbon storage.
Urban Agriculture & Forestry provides targeted funding to support urban agriculture and forestry producers.
EQIP Conservation Incentive Contracts offer additional financial assistance for adopting conservation activities. Northeast Wisconsin Forestry & Wildlife Partnership focuses on habitat restoration and improvement.
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative supports water quality improvement in selected watersheds. Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative aims to reduce nutrient and phosphorus runoff. National Water Quality Initiative addresses water quality concerns in specific watersheds.
The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) promotes collaboration between NRCS and partners to deliver conservation assistance. Several RCPP projects with funding available in fiscal year 2025 include:
Improving Forest Health for Wildlife Resources with American Bird Conservancy
Improving Oak Ecosystem Health in the Great Lakes Region with American Bird Conservancy
Wisconsin Farmland Protection Partnership Project with American Farmland Trust
Improving Soil Health and Water Quality with Dane County Land and Water Resources Department
Ashwaubenon Creek and Dutchman Creek Watersheds Water Quality and Habitat Improvement with NEW Water
Grasslands and Oak Savannas for Water and Wildlife with Sand County Foundation
Driftless Area Habitat for the Wild and Rare with Trout Unlimited
By applying early, farmers can ensure timely consideration for these valuable conservation programs and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment.
Photo Credit: usda-nrcs
Categories: Wisconsin, General